What It Costs

There are several categories of costs, described below, followed by a list of frequently asked questions about those costs:

One-time Joining Fee:

As of March, 2017, we do not currently require a joining fee.

A one-time Joining Fee is payable when becoming a Provisional Member. The joining fee amount for 2015 is $2,000 per adult; this fee is adjusted up or down each year relative to the price of Land we plan to purchase.

Annual Dues and Fees:

Dues and fees are determined annually before the beginning of each fiscal year (October 1st).

Provisional and Full Members’ Annual Dues and Fees: $0 for 2017; $0 for 2016; $0 for 2015; $0 for 2014
Vehicle Fee: $300 per vehicle ($200 for small vehicles—ATVs, snow machines, etc.).

Annual Community Service Requirement:

Full Members: 1,500 community service hours over their first 10 years; 50 hours per year minimum. Some or all of this may be paid in cash.

Provisional Members: 48 hours per quarter.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I leave, do I get my Joining Fee back?

The Joining Fee, if any, is not refundable.

Does it cost less to live on Commmunity Land?

Living on the Land can be both less and more expensive than living in mainstream culture. While the up-front costs may be more, ongoing livings costs may be less depending on climate, how much one already has, et cetera.

What fees are required for children?

A member's child under 18 may live with the member without paying dues, or a joining fee. At age 18, the child is eligible to go through the membership process. Dues, fees and community service requirements begin to apply at age 18. The Joining Fee may be paid on behalf of underage children at any time, and their Provisional Membership period will begin at age 18 without interruption.

At what point do Provisional Members pay the Joining Fee?

Members pay the joining fee, if applicable, during the Council meeting at which they become a Provisional Member.

About the Community Financial Structure:

What are the Community’s expenses?

• Annual Operating Expenses: Property taxes; insurance; repair and maintenance of community buildings, equipment; promotions; marketing (website, etc.); and services from independent contractors for administrative, bookkeeping, and legal, and accounting work.
• One-time Expenses (Capital Expenditures): Select materials for new buildings, power systems; improving/remodeling old ones; buying new equipment and tools; satellite internet.

What are the sources of income at the Community level?

Non-recurring income sources are new members' Joining Fees, whether paid up front or over time. Recurring income from supporting members; all members' annual dues and fees; and grants and donations of money and land.

If the community disbanded, would the property be sold and the profits divvied up equally between all members?

No. The Community Land is a trust structured to protect the land from further development.

---